Tributes Paid to Traditional Irish Musician and Educator Con Herbert

Founding Roots in West Limerick and North Cork

The unexpected death of Con (Neilus) Herbert prompted an outpouring of grief across Cork, Limerick, and beyond. Described as an exceptional accordion and concertina player and an inspirational teacher, Herbert left an indelible mark on traditional Irish music. He was a West Limerick native and a founder member of two branches of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, as well as a founder of Craobh Chrónáin Comhaltas in Freemount in North Cork. Herbert taught at the local national school starting in 1979 and eventually retired as its principal in 2011.

Beyond his contributions to music and education, Herbert also achieved success on the sporting field. He won a Limerick senior county hurling medal in 1980 with Killeedy, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to Gaelic games alongside his artistic pursuits.

Nurturing Traditional Music in Freemount Classrooms

Margaret Kiely, Cork Comhaltas cathaoirleach and Craobh Chrónáin leas-chathaoirleach, noted that Herbert laid the essential groundwork for youth music education in the region. He ensured that every child in the school learned an instrument, Kiely said, reflecting on his pedagogical approach.

Under his guidance, student participation expanded to include events like Scór, Slógadh, and Readóirí. Kiely explained that everything at first was school-based, a grassroots effort that directly led to the founding of CCÉ Craobh Chrónáin over 40 years ago.

A Mentor and Cultural Preservationist

Tim Collins of the Kilfenora Céilí Band remembered Herbert as his mentor, emphasizing the profound influence he had on younger musicians. Collins stated that Herbert had that rare gift of making music feel alive.

“He didn’t simply teach notes and tunes; he passed on tradition, history, values, and a deep love for our culture. Con devoted his life to promoting Irish culture, traditional music, the Irish language, and Gaelic games. He understood that these were not separate pursuits, but strands of the same rich tapestry that gives meaning to community and identity.”

Tim Collins, Kilfenora Céilí Band

Collins added that while Herbert received various honors, his work was never about recognition or applause. Instead, it centered on ensuring the survival of the art forms he cherished.

Musical Tributes and Final Farewell

Hundreds of people gathered to pay their respects at Ashford’s Tigh Cheoil, offering musical tributes before Herbert’s funeral mass at St Ita’s Church. Among the performers was former pupil Elle Marie O’Dwyer, who sang Where the Allow Waters Flow, a composition written by Herbert himself.

Herbert is survived by nieces, nephews, grand- and great-grandnieces and nephews, alongside a vast family in music.